18 karat gold and diamond parure, Sterlé, Paris, circa 1950

Comprising a necklace, bracelet and pair of earclips, the necklace designed as a ribbon and bow studded with round diamonds; the bracelet centering a large bow studded with single-cut diamonds mounted in platinum; the earclips designed as knotted ribbons studded with single-cut diamonds mounted in platinum, the total diamond weight approximately 1.25 carats, length of necklace and bracelet 15 and 6¾ inches, signed Sterlé, Paris, necklace numbered 9.346, bracelet numbered 4.433, and the earclips numbered 4.597, French assay marks.   

Good general condition with overall surface wear; few points of minor crimping. Areas of discoloration. Both the necklace and the bracelet are fitted with safety closures. Total gross weight approximately 94 dwts; total diamond weight approximately 1.25 carats (approximately G-H color, VS clarity).
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

A similar necklace and bracelet are illustrated by Jutheau, Sterlé: Joaillier Paris, p. 64.

Pierre Sterlé (1905-1978) was introduced to the world of jewelry by his uncle and guardian who owned a shop on the rue de Castiglione in Paris. By the age of 29, his aptitude for jewelry design was such that he opened his own workshop on the rue Sainte Anne where, for the next several years, he designed and manufactured jewels for some of the leading houses in Paris including Boucheron, Chaumet and Ostertag. By 1945, he opened an elegant third-floor showroom on the avenue de l'Opera. Although Sterlé had many clients among the world's most fashionable ladies, he remained a very personal jeweler who shunned showing his creations on street level, preferring to greet customers in the elite atmosphere of his salon.  Sterlé's designs epitomized the dynamics of 1950s design and were wrought with great movement and energy. Whether executed in glittering diamonds or in "fil d'ange," his trademark of gold rope fringes, his creations never failed to surprise and delight. In 1976, Sterlé closed his business and joined Chaumet where he lent his talent in designing modern pieces in the prevailing style.